LOS ANGELES CITY + COUNTY UPDATES

Earlier this year, LA County and City passed their respective plans to end homelessness. The County’s Homeless Initiative, which includes a proposed $110 million budget over the next two years, is already in the beginning stages of implementation. The City’s Comprehensive Homeless Strategy includes a budget of $1.85 billion to spend on tackling homelessness over the next decade. It also includes a strategy which addresses women’s unique needs, and calls for better services for women experiencing homelessness.

Now, our next big push is to ensure the City’s plan is fully funded in the amount of $100 million in the 2016-2017 fiscal year budget. Head here to tell Mayor Garcetti and your City Councilmember why the plan must be funded this year!

ABOVE: The Residents United Network meets with Eddie Mendoza of Senator de Leon's staff. (source: Residents United Network)

RUN residents, including DWC resident Francine, shared their lived experience with homelessness and explained how access to affordable housing has benefited them. We then urged each office to vote to approve efforts to expand affordable housing options, so that other people can access those benefits, too.

We got some great lobbying practice in time for Lobby Day next month! On April 12, DWC will again join forces with RUN and travel to Sacramento to advocate for affordable housing legislation. We’ll update you on our efforts in the state capitol soon.

VOTER REGISTRATION

Election Day is fast approaching! Are you registered to vote? This year, the Downtown Women’s Center is partnering with the League of Women Voters to set up Voter Registration booths in our Day Center. Dates and times will be announced shortly, so stay tuned!